This bill amends existing South Dakota law to require both the director of the Legislative Research Council and the secretary of state to review initiated measures to determine if they comply with the single subject requirement outlined in the South Dakota Constitution. Specifically, the bill modifies section 12-13-25 to mandate that the director provide written comments and a written opinion regarding whether an initiated measure or amendment embraces only one subject. Additionally, it introduces a new section (Section 3) that tasks the secretary of state with making a similar determination upon receiving a proposal for an initiated measure. If the measure is found to comply, the secretary must certify it and publish notice of this certification on their website within fifteen working days.

Furthermore, the bill allows for appeals to the Supreme Court regarding the secretary of state's decisions on certification or non-certification of initiated measures. It amends section 12-13-26.2 to clarify that any interested party can appeal the secretary's decision within fifteen days of the notice being published online. The Supreme Court is also tasked with establishing rules for the appeal process. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the review process for initiated measures, ensuring they adhere to constitutional requirements while providing a clear pathway for appeals.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/23/2025: 12-13-26.2
Senate Engrossed, 02/12/2025: 12-13-25, 12-13-26.2
Enrolled, 03/05/2025: 12-13-25, 12-13-26.2